We’re closing out our river-themed week by taking a look at a very special aquatic animal. Meet Pancake the spiny softshell turtle in today’s episode of Curious By Nature!
Support for the Nature Museum is provided by Rose Pest Solutions.
February is Black History Month. Historically, culturally, and institutionally, the contributions to the scientific world from scientists of color have been marginalized. Their stories are often missing in the narrative of history.
To observe Black History Month and to promote scientists of color, the Chicago Academy of Sciences / Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum will be highlighting Black scientists who contributed to our collective understanding of nature around the world and in our backyards.
History is always being made. We hope you will join in the conversation by replying to this email and sharing any historical scientific achievements of people of color that inspire you. We will incorporate your comments throughout the month as we share stories of notable scientists of color.

Fiona the red-bellied northern cooter is target trained! What does that mean? She has worked with our animal care team to press her nose to a red ball to receive a reward (her favorite is crunchy pieces of lettuce or the occasional cricket). Target training uses positive reinforcement to establish relationships between animals and caretakers, and provide our animals some time to use those mental muscles to learn throughout their day! Click here to get a peek into Fiona’s training!

Snow, snow, snow! This wintry weather has us thinking about Jabberwocky Marionettes’ Winter Puppet Show. If you weren’t able to join us for this special presentation during Home for the Holidays, you can check it out here.

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